Nationals Farm Authority

The rebuilding of the farm began this afternoon.  Contrary to earlier reports that Livan Hernandez had been pulled back from waivers after a deal failed to materialize, the Nationals traded Hernandez to the Arizona Diamondbacks.  Coming back to Washington are 23-year old starting pitchers Matt Chico (LH) and Garret Mock (RH).

Hernandez had an up and down season with the Nationals in 2006 but had recently pitched strongly (3-0 with a 3.27 ERA in his last five outings).  “Livo will certainly be missed on and off the field,” said GM Jim Bowden who informed Hernandez of the deal.  “He was appreciative of his years here, but will be happy to be in the pennant race.  He deserves to be in the pennant race at this point in his career.”  Bowden believed that this deal was a step towards making the farm system better, “Our goal is to trade for pitching, pitching, pitching and hopefully top pitching prospects that are close to the big leagues.”

Acquiring two highly thought of 23-year old pitchers was “exactly the type of deal to fill out our foundation,” commented President Stan Kasten.  “It is critical now for us to build a foundation for our jumping off point in 2008 [and the opening of the new stadium].”

Bowden stated that discussion had been ongoing regarding Hernandez’ availability since prior to the July 31 trade deadline.  Arizona placed a claim on Livan last week and the discussions continued until the deal was reached.  Bowden declined to reveal the financial aspect of the deal, more specifically how much of Hernandez’ contract would be picked up by Arizona.  Bowden stated that this deal in no way prevented the Nationals from signing Alfonso Soriano to a long term contract.

Replacing Hernandez on the roster will be RP Chris Schroder from New Orleans.  In 28 games in New Orleans, Schroder has pitched 47.1 innings allowing 25 hits (2HR), 9 runs (8 earned), and 16 walks while striking out 60.  No decision has been made on who will replace Hernandez in the rotation.  Options include Steve Watkins and Jason Bergmann, both pitching well in New Orleans.

The players acquired by the Nationals were both highly recommended by Mike Rizzo, current Nationals Assistant GM and Director of Scouting, who drafted Mock and Chico while in charge of scouting in Arizona. 

Bowden described Mock as having a “Roger Clemens body-type” with a 90-95mph fastball and a power slider (83-87mph).  He described him as an innings eater who he envisiones Mock being part of the starting rotation in 2008.  John Sickels had Mock rated as his #9 prospect entering 2006 and about a month ago commented “3-7, 4.55 in 17 starts for Double-A Tennessee, 94/39 K/BB in 99 innings, 103 hits allowed. Not really breaking through as I thought he might, but the K/IP remains promising.”  Mock will report to Harrisburg where roving pitching instructor Spin Williams will work with Mock on his command in the strikezone as well as focusing more on his slider than his curve.

Chico, another 23-year old, was compared by Bowden to Mike Hampton, both in body type and in demeanor on the mound.  He has a 88-92mph fastball, cutter, and a changeup.  Bowden said he was a hardworker, who like Mock will report to Harrisburg with designs on being ready for the major league rotation in 2008.  Sickels had Chico #20 and in his update, commented “A rebounding process, combined numbers are 5-6, 3.14 in 17 starts between Lancaster and Tennessee, with an 86/24 K/BB in 95 innings, 75 hits allowed. Is finally adapting to Double-A competition after failing to do so in ’04 and ’05.”

When asked where Mock and Chico fit among the pitching prospects in the organization, Bowden replied that they were among the top three (along with 2006 draft pick Colton Willems).  He added that #4 and 5 would probably be Collin Balester and Craig Stammen, both currently pitching in Potomac.

“The deal was a step forward.  You win with pitching” said Bowden, hoping that acquistions of Mock and Chico will provide the foundation the Nationals hope to have as the new ballpark opens.

Other news:

• SP Shawn Hill continues to complain of a sore elbow and will be visiting Dr. James Andrews on Tuesday.
• SP John Patterson is home in Texas and his rehab is coming along well but is likely done for the season.  Not 100% certain but most likely.
• SP Mike O’Connor is the most likely SP to return to the Nationals this season.  The rest of the disabled pitchers are most likely done for the season.
• No updates on the unsigned draft picks.  Bowden stated that there was progress on some.  None on others.  He will wait until all the signings are completed until he can grade the 2006 draft.